Jerrold Earle Smith

Jerrold Earle Smith of Acworth, GA passed away on June 23, 2023 at Tranquility Hospice with his family present.

Jerry was born on October 30, 1925 in St. Joseph, Michigan to Earle and Lucille Smith. He grew up in the area and at a very early age developed a love of flying and aviation. He enlisted in the US Army Air Corps and served from 1943-1946. Upon completing his military service he took a job as a draftsman for Tyler Fixture Corporation. On November 24, 1949 he married Ann Costelluccio. Their daughter Sandra was born one year later. In 1951, he took a job with Bendix Aerospace and he worked for that company for 38 years until his retirement in 1987 at the age of 62. In 1988, he and Ann moved to Acworth, GA.

In the 1950’s, Jerry started flying remote controlled airplanes. His interest in this hobby would expand to the point where he would design and build RC model airplanes and be involved with several RC model airplane clubs throughout the areas wherever he lived. He was routinely seen at RC Model fly-ins where he would write articles and take pictures (he developed a love for photography in the 1970’s).

He is survived by his two sisters, Janyce Gano and Barbara Brooks, daughter Sandra (Don) Bachand, granddaughter Andrea, and great-granddaughter Madison, numerous nieces and nephews, and very special friends Greg Mooney, Eric Vargo, and David Gates. Jerry also had many friends throughout the RC Model community who brought joy and happiness to his life.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, older brother Donovan, and his wife Ann.

In lieu of flowers, to honor Jerry, the family requests that you would do something unusually kind for someone.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.winkenhoferpineridgefuneralhome.com for the Smith family.